EESC 1110 Geology of National Parks (Spring: 3 )

Course Description

U.S. National Parks give us the perfect opportunity to explore and discuss fundamental geological concepts. How was the Grand Canyon carved out by a river? How are volcanoes in Hawaii different from those in Katmai National Park, and what do they tell us about plate tectonics? How did glaciers shape Acadia National Park? Which parks are most susceptible to earthquakes and why? While considering various National Parks, as well as some State Parks and/or parks in other countries, basic modern scientific methods in the earth sciences will be discussed and explored.